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Discover Northern & Central Vietnam in depth with this 21-day itinerary designed for travelers seeking authenticity and diversity.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai, from the colorful ethnic markets of Ha Giang to the mystical landscapes of Lan Ha Bay, this journey takes you well off the beaten track.
You will then continue your adventure in Central Vietnam, exploring the imperial treasures of Hue, the vast Tam Giang Lagoon, the timeless charm of Hoi An, and the remnants of the Cham Kingdom in My Son.
A rich program of local encounters, cultural immersion, and moments of relaxation — crafted to let you experience Vietnam in all its splendor.
Arrival at Hanoi Airport at 06:35 am. Meet your guide and driver, then transfer to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Begin your journey gently with a cyclo ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, followed by a walking tour of some of its main streets and a visit to Ngoc Son Temple on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Enjoy lunch at a local specialty restaurant with Bun Cha Nem (grilled pork noodle soup served with spring rolls).
You can check into your rooms in the early afternoon. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
Leisure and overnight at the hotel.
Departure for Chuong Village, renowned for the traditional crafting of Vietnam’s iconic conical hat. Here, you will observe the meticulous process of making the “Non,” primarily from palm leaves. Continue to Vac Village, specialized in birdcage production. The artisans of Vac are well known for their skill and creativity, producing beautiful and functional cages that are highly sought after.
After lunch, the journey continues to Quang Phu Cau Village, located about 35 km from central Hanoi. Quang Phu Cau is famous for its incense production, and a stroll through the village offers a colorful and fragrant experience.
Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon. This full-day excursion provides a unique insight into the region’s rich artisanal heritage.
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure with your guide and driver. Start the day with a visit to the charming Duong Lam Village, famous for its ancient laterite houses and historic temples dedicated to Vietnamese kings. Stroll through its peaceful alleys, discover local crafts, and enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with fresh ingredients.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Muong Lo, a Thai township nestled in the heart of a vast plain of lush rice fields surrounded by mountains. By late afternoon, settle into the home of a local family for an authentic cultural immersion. Share a convivial dinner of local specialties, exchange stories about traditions and customs, and spend the night in a traditional stilt house — a unique experience that showcases the warmth and hospitality of Vietnam’s Thai people.
Overnight with a host family.
Head towards Mu Cang Chai, passing through the charming region of Tu Le, renowned for its lush rice fields and tranquil landscapes. Take a break for a 1.5-hour walk through the paddies, where you can observe the daily work of local farmers and soak up the serenity of the rural surroundings.
Along the way, explore the Hmong villages of Nga Ba Kim and La Pan Tan, famous for their spectacular terraced rice fields — true works of art sculpted by generations of farmers. These landscapes, among the most stunning in Vietnam, change color with the seasons and offer breathtaking panoramas.
Continue your journey to arrive in Mu Cang Chai by late afternoon, a must-see destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Settle in for the night in this picturesque setting, the perfect place to relax and prepare for more fascinating discoveries in this preserved region.
After breakfast, depart for Sapa, with several stops along the way to capture the stunning mountain landscapes in photos. A delicious lunch awaits you in a local restaurant before continuing your journey. In the afternoon, set off on a 3–4 hour trek through the picturesque villages of Ma Tra and Lu Khau, where you can admire the terraced rice fields and meet the welcoming locals. Your hike will lead you to Ta Phin village, home to the Red Dao community, an ethnic group that preserves unique traditions. After dinner, treat yourself to a relaxing herbal bath, a traditional specialty of the Red Dao, perfect for revitalizing after a full day of exploration (optional, at your own expense).
After breakfast, transfer by car to the starting point of your hike. The trail is more challenging than the day before, but it rewards you with stunning landscapes, far from the usual tourist paths. Lunch in a local restaurant. At the end of the hike, you will head towards Bac Ha, arriving in the late afternoon. Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Bac Ha ethnic market, a vibrant and colorful gathering where local communities meet each week. This market, one of the most iconic in Northern Vietnam, is a true explosion of colors and scents. Ethnic minority groups, dressed in richly embroidered traditional costumes, come here to sell their handmade crafts, livestock, and regional specialties. It’s a unique immersion into local culture, where you can discover handwoven fabrics, jewelry, and even taste typical dishes from the area.
After this authentic experience, head towards Ha Giang, a province still untouched by mass tourism, renowned for its breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along the way, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of lush valleys, remote villages, and winding rivers. Take in these moments to admire the raw beauty of Northern Vietnam. Upon arrival in Ha Giang, settle in for dinner and an overnight stay, ready to explore this unique and captivating region.
After breakfast, set off on an unforgettable journey along one of Vietnam’s most spectacular roads, connecting Ha Giang to Dong Van. This breathtaking route is a succession of winding mountain passes, deep valleys, and majestic peaks, offering awe-inspiring panoramas at every turn. On the way, stop at Quang Ba, also known as the “Heaven’s Gate”, where you can admire incredible views over the surrounding valleys — a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
Throughout the journey, you’ll have the chance to visit several ethnic minority villages, where you can observe their traditional way of life and interact with warm and welcoming locals. These authentic encounters provide a unique cultural immersion into this preserved region. A lunch at a local restaurant will punctuate this day of discoveries before continuing the road to Dong Van, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon, around 4 p.m. Settle in for dinner and spend the night in this charming mountain town, ready to unveil more treasures in the next stages of your trip.
Start your day with a visit to the local market of Dong Van, a lively gathering place where ethnic minorities from the region come to trade agricultural products, handicrafts, and local specialties. Immerse yourself in this authentic atmosphere, where colorful traditional costumes and the warm smiles of the villagers reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Continue with the discovery of the Pu Lo Fortress, a historic site offering breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding valleys — the perfect spot to admire the wild beauty of Northern Vietnam.
Next, take the spectacular Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most dramatic mountain roads in the country. This route winds through karst peaks and dizzying canyons, offering unforgettable views that will remain etched in your memory.
Once there, enjoy a peaceful one-hour sampan ride on the Nho Que River, surrounded by towering cliffs, for a serene moment in the heart of nature.
After lunch in the small town of Meo Vac, continue your journey towards Bao Lac, arriving in the late afternoon. Settle into a local homestay in Khuoi Khon village, an authentic community inhabited by ethnic minorities, and share a convivial dinner for a unique cultural immersion. Spend the night in this tranquil setting, the perfect place to recharge.
After breakfast, set off to discover the Black Lo Lo village, an ethnic minority renowned for its unique traditions and costumes adorned with geometric patterns. This special encounter will allow you to observe their traditional way of life and explore their local handicrafts.
Next, take the road towards Cao Bang, a journey of about 180 km through stunning mountain landscapes. Along the way, stop at ethnic markets, where you’ll have the chance to meet local minorities such as the Flower Lo Lo, White Hmong, and Red Dao. These vibrant and colorful markets provide a fascinating glimpse into daily life. The women, dressed in their traditional attire, will welcome you with warmth and smiles, adding a deeply human dimension to this cultural experience.
At the end of the day, settle into a homestay near the Ban Gioc Waterfalls, an authentic and peaceful setting. After a convivial dinner, enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you prepare for the discoveries of the following day.
Start the day with a visit to the Ban Gioc Waterfalls, located on the border between Vietnam and China. With their majestic cascades plunging over 70 meters, these falls are among the most impressive natural wonders in Vietnam. Marvel at the power of the water tumbling down in terraces amidst lush greenery, and take the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Nguom Ngao Cave, one of the largest natural caves in the country. Inside, discover a fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites in varied shapes — a geological masterpiece millions of years in the making. This subterranean adventure offers a striking contrast to the outdoor beauty of the waterfalls.
After lunch in a local restaurant, drive towards Ba Be, famous for its namesake lake and stunning natural landscapes. The 150 km journey (about 4 hours) passes through peaceful rural areas, offering plenty of chances to admire the Vietnamese countryside. You’ll arrive at Ba Be in the evening, ready to explore this natural gem the following day.
After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable cruise on Ba Be Lake and the Nang River. Nestled among towering mountains and lush forests, this lake is a true haven of peace and one of Vietnam’s natural treasures. As you glide along the water, take in the serene landscapes surrounding the lake and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of this pristine setting.
During the cruise, stop to visit the Dau Dang Waterfalls, where rushing waters cascade through a wild and picturesque environment, and then explore Puong Cave, an impressive natural tunnel carved into limestone by the Nang River, home to colonies of bats.
After this morning of discoveries, begin your return journey to Hanoi (approximately 350 km, about 6 hours by road). Along the way, enjoy the rural scenery and take a few breaks to relax. Arrival in Hanoi is expected in the early evening, between 7:00 and 8:00 pm, marking the end of your adventure in Northern Vietnam.
Travel by private transfer to Cat Ba Island, a destination famous for its spectacular landscapes of karst mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Along the way, you’ll cross by ferry, already enjoying stunning views of the surrounding islets. Once on the island, continue to Beo Port, the starting point of your cruise.
On arrival, board the Quatre Saisons junk, a traditional boat with authentic charm, for a unique experience on the waters of Lan Ha Bay. The program begins with a delicious lunch freshly prepared on board, followed by relaxing and immersive activities. Paddle through karst islets on a kayak excursion, then unwind with a refreshing swim in calm, clear waters.
End this magical day with a peaceful night aboard the junk, lulled by the waves and surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the bay.
Start the day with breakfast on board your junk, enjoying the tranquility and majestic scenery of Lan Ha Bay. Then set off on a cycling excursion to the charming Viet Hai Village, nestled in the heart of Cat Ba National Park. This small, isolated village offers an authentic glimpse of local life, surrounded by karst mountains and lush forests.
Back on board, savor a delicious lunch while taking in one last view of the bay’s enchanting landscapes. After checking out of your cabins, you’ll disembark around 11:30 a.m., marking the end of your cruise. Continue your journey by heading to Tam Coc, often called the “Halong Bay on land” for its spectacular karst scenery. Along the way, admire the typical rural landscapes of Northern Vietnam. You’ll arrive in Tam Coc by late afternoon, ready to explore this unique region the next day.
After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Immerse yourself in history as you visit the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings, surrounded by striking karst landscapes. Next, head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage eco-tourism site, where you will embark on a rowboat ride through natural caves and winding rivers framed by spectacular limestone formations. Return to Tam Coc for a typical lunch before continuing your exploration of this magical region. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of temples nestled against a mountainside, offering stunning views of the surroundings. Continue on to discover Hang Mua Cave, accessible after climbing 500 steps, which rewards you with a breathtaking panorama over the rice fields and karst cliffs. At the end of the day, drive back to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, you’ll be welcomed and transferred into the city by your driver (no guide). Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, enjoy a sampan ride to visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc (or Minh Mang or Khai Dinh, depending on your choice). A vegetarian lunch will be served at Lien Hoa Pagoda.
In the afternoon, explore the Imperial City of Hue, including the Noon Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Royal Reading Pavilion, and the temples of the Nguyen dynasty.
Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast at your hotel, begin the day with a visit to the Imperial City of Hue (the Noon Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Royal Reading Pavilion, the temples of the Nguyen dynasty, etc.).
You will then embark on a 2-day off-the-beaten-path journey to Phuoc Tich, located 40 km north of Hue. This ancient village, set along the beautiful O Lau River, is known for its typical traditional houses. On the program: visit local homes, discover a pottery workshop, and enjoy lunch with a local family.
In the afternoon, continue to the Tam Giang Lagoon, 25 km from Phuoc Tich — the largest lagoon in Indochina. Activities include a walk through the fishing village, an introduction to the villagers’ fishing techniques and daily life, and an exploration of rice and vegetable cultivation.
Dinner and overnight stay in a homestay at Tam Giang, in the heart of the countryside.
Early in the morning, you will visit the Tam Giang Lagoon and its Vietnamese floating market (around 4–5 a.m., optional). After breakfast, depart for Da Nang via the scenic coastal road. On the way, stop at An Bang Village, known for its gigantic tombs built with the financial support of Vietnamese living overseas. Enjoy lunch with a local family along the route. Continue your journey over the spectacular Hai Van Pass (Pass of Clouds) before visiting the Cham Museum and Linh Ung Pagoda, the largest pagoda in Da Nang, offering a panoramic view over Da Nang Bay.
Arrival at your hotel in Da Nang. Dinner at leisure and overnight at the hotel.
Breakfast, and then free time.
After breakfast, depart for Hoi An. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel, then set out to explore the ancient town of Hoi An: the former fishing port of Faifo, the lively local market, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the Chinese temple, and the historic Tan Ky ancient house, among others.
Overnight at the hotel.
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for My Son, known as the “Valley of the Kings,” once the capital of the Cham kingdom, which flourished until the 10th century. Visit the archaeological site before heading to Da Nang Airport for your return flight to Hanoi.
End of our services.
All our tours are private. You will travel with your own vehicle, driver, and guide, ensuring maximum comfort and flexibility throughout your journey.
Private tours for solo travelers are significantly more expensive, and most guides are unwilling to lead one-person tours. Therefore, this itinerary is available starting from 2 travelers.
If you’re traveling alone, we can offer day trips or short excursions instead.
No, our tours begin upon your arrival in Vietnam.
However, we’re happy to assist you in booking your international flights if needed.
You’ll find the ideal travel period in the “Practical Info” section, based on the climate in the regions visited.
That said, this tour is available year-round, with a few adjustments depending on the season.
This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking cultural discovery and immersion in nature.
It can be adapted for couples, families, or groups of friends of all ages.
Absolutely! All our tours are fully customizable.
You can modify the duration, change accommodations, add activities, or adjust the pace according to your preferences.
Simply send us a request using the contact form on this page.
One of our travel advisors will get back to you quickly to finalize your itinerary and provide a personalized quote.
Let’s talk and tailor it to your wishes.
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info@parfumdautomne.fr
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